Bucs Pro-Bowlers avoid PUP list, but not expected to play against Falcons

A couple of Bucs Pro-Bowlers were activated off the PUP list and added to Tampa Bay’s 53-man roster on Tuesday, as Chris Godwin and Tristan Wirfs both passed their respective physicals. However, it still feels highly unlikely either will play in Week 1 against the Falcons.

Godwin is recovering from an ankle injury he suffered in Week 7 against the Baltimore Ravens last season. Adam Schefter recently reported it’s not likely he plays until October and won’t even practice until Week 2. 

“Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter earlier Thursday that Godwin still is unlikely to play until October as he continues recovering from the fractured ankle he suffered in Week 7 last season.”

Wirfs is recovering from a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery last month. At the time of the procedure, it was reported that he would likely miss around four weeks of the season. This development suggests the All-Pro left tackle could be ahead of schedule, but it’s still highly unlikely that he is available in Week 1.

The Bucs will also be without second-year wideout Jalen McMillan, who suffered a severe neck injury during the preseason and is expected to miss at least half of the season.

That leaves Tampa Bay pretty short-handed going into Week 1, but the Falcons are dealing with several injuries of their own. They are currently down to their third string right tackle. Kaleb McGary is out for the season, and Storm Norton will miss 6-8 weeks after undergoing ankle surgery.

Additionally, Darnell Mooney is questionable for Week 1, and the Falcons will be without starting linebacker Troy Andersen, who will begin the season on the PUP list.